Kayaking & Paddling

At Sunken Meadow State Park you can launch a kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard or windsurfer from Field 3 only, on the east side of the field, every day from sunrise to sunset. Inflatable boats are not allowed. From Field 3 you paddle onto Long Island Sound near the mouth of the Nissequogue River. For rentals, NYS Parks lists canoe and kayak rentals at Nissequogue River State Park next door, (631) 979-8244.

The Field 3 Launch

NYS Parks is specific: windsurfing, kayak and canoe launching is "available year-round from Sunrise to Sunset in Field 3 only". The launches sit on the east side of Field 3. There is no separate launch fee; you pay the park's vehicle fee at the gate ($10 a car in summer 2026). Field 3 is also a lifeguarded swim beach in summer, so keep clear of the swimming area. See the beach page.

What You Can Launch

• Kayaks and canoes: yes.
• Stand-up paddleboards: yes, NYS Parks lists them as an amenity.
• Windsurfers: yes, from Field 3.
• Inflatables: no. NYS Parks does not permit inflatable vessels.

Paddling the Nissequogue

Sunken Meadow Creek runs through the park to tidal flats at the mouth of the Nissequogue River, at the east end. The Nissequogue itself is the river the Long Island Greenbelt Trail follows south, past bluffs and wetlands in Nissequogue River State Park. NYS Parks says boat launching there is tide dependent and that boats in its marina can sit in the mud at low tide. Plan any river trip around the tide table, and expect shallow flats near the mouth at low water.

Rentals and Other Launches

• Nissequogue River State Park: canoe and kayak launch, and rentals. NYS Parks gives the rental number as (631) 979-8244. Its boat-launch season runs April 21 to November 1, sunrise to sunset.
• Kings Park Bluff: a Town of Smithtown park with boat ramps, for town residents and taxpayers only. See Kings Park Bluff.

Good For

• Sound paddling on calm summer mornings.
• Birdwatching from the water around the salt marsh: herons, egrets, terns and osprey (NYSDEC).
• Windsurfing from the one beach where it is allowed.

Maybe Skip If

• You have an inflatable kayak or SUP. It is not allowed here.
• The wind is up. Long Island Sound can be choppy; the cross-country runners know the wind here well.
• You want to launch after dark. The park closes at sunset.

Safety

Wear a life jacket, check the marine forecast and the tide, and tell someone your route. In an emergency call 911; State Park Police are at (631) 321-3700.